Help

No account yet?
Registering is free, easy, and private.
Discuss in the forum, contribute to the Encyclopedia, build your own MyAnime lists, and more.

4 New Release Dates

Jul 18th 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADV ANNOUNCES RELEASE DATE FOR ZAION: I WISH YOU WERE HERE-EPIDEMIC

FIRST VOLUME OF THIS TIMELY AND INTRIGUING TALE OF A LETHAL VIRUS OUTBREAK AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 30, 2003; COLLECTOR'S EDITION AVAILABLE

HOUSTON, July 18, 2003-ADV Films today announced a September 30, 2003 release date for the first volume of the thrilling sci-fi anime series Zaion: I Wish You Were Here. Directed by Seiji Muzushima (Dai Guard, Generator Gawl) and produced by Gonzo Digimation (Full Metal Panic, Hellsing, Blue Sub No. 6), Zaion found success with Japanese fans not only through its 2001 television release, but also with a groundbreaking Internet broadcast of the first episode. Praise for the series has traveled across the Pacific, increasing U.S. anticipation for the four-episode series, praised for its plot, its character designs and its successful combination of CG and traditional cel animation.

Collector's Edition Available!
ADV's release of Zaion will be available in two versions: as a DVD in its standard case, or as a collector's edition including the DVD and a custom series art box, sized to hold both volumes of the series.

The Story:
A meteorite crashes to Earth, bringing with it a deadly virus known as M34 that infects humans, turning them into lethal beast-like monsters. The world's top organizations gather to form the organization CURE to combat the infectious disease. One organization, NOA, stands in the virus' destructive path by using solders implanted with super nanotechnology to fight the vicious disease. But as the virus continues to spread and mutate into different strains, mankind's only hope may be a sixteen-year-old girl...

Zaion: I Wish You Were Here-Epidemic (SRP $24.98 DVD only; $29.98 Collector's Edition) is a DVD-only release, including two complete episodes. Includes both English- and Japanese-language versions, and English subtitles. Extras include: Japanese promotional clip, interviews with director Seiji Mizushima and with the president of Gonzo Digimation, production sketches, and ADV Previews.

About ADV Films:
In 1992, ADV Films began to forge the international market for Japanese animation ("anime") by combining unique titles, outstanding production values and efficient large-scale distribution. Today, ADV Films is the #1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation to the North American market, with the firm's holdings including such premier titles as NOIR, Sailor Moon, Samurai X, Hello Kitty's Paradise, RahXephon, Spriggan, Robotech, Full Metal Panic and Neon Genesis Evangelion. In addition, ADV Films' product line has expanded to include other forms of genre programming, including live-action science fiction programs Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda, Mutant X and The Jim Henson Company's Farscape, and classic science fiction such as the updated Gamera trilogy. ADV Films' parent company, A.D. Vision, Inc. also publishes Newtype USA, the premier anime and manga monthly in the English-speaking world, and operates The Anime Network(tm), broadcasting anime and anime-related programming via digital cable, 24 hours a day. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, USA, with additional offices in the EU and Japan, and distribution on four continents, ADV Films is fast becoming an international entertainment powerhouse. For more information, visit ADV Films on the web at http://www.advfilms.com.

SECOND VOLUME OF RACY ACTION SERIES SET FOR SEPTEMBER 30, 2003; EYE-OPENING COLLECTOR'S BOX ALSO AVAILABLE

HOUSTON, July 18, 2003-ADV Films has set a street date of September 30, 2003 for the release of the second volume of the thrilling and racy 12-episode Japanese animated series Najica Blitz Tactics.

Directed by Katsuihiko Nishijima (Project A-ko, Labyrinth of Flames), and with animation direction by Noriyasu Yamauchi (Guyver: Out of Control), Najica Blitz Tactics is a fast-paced "spy-fi" thriller, packed with hard-hitting action and more than a little eye-candy for the fans.

The Story:
CRI super agent Najica Hiiragi and her partner Lila are back to save the world! The fun starts when they must race against time to stop the madman Ricardo Kidel from using a nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile to stage a coup.

Then the Humaritt version of Pandora's box is opened when a Humaritt combat model gets activated without orders or a master. The Humaritt escapes, and Najica and the CRI team have to find this android before disaster ensues! While Lila recovers from injuries, Najica must work solo to help teenage math prodigy Swaney and her guardian Daniela from being re-captured by the repressive government of Kirnovf.

If that weren't enough, the rogue Humaritt Toni takes a hostage-Azusa Katsuragi-to prevent the destruction of a stolen jet fighter, the Oboro. Najica and Lila must recover both while going up against Toni's master, the weapons dealer Rasse Pewnt! It's all in a day's work for Najica Blitz Tactics!

Najica Blitz Tactics: Volume 2 ($29.98 SRP) is a DVD-only release, including four complete episodes, in both English- and Japanese-language versions, with English subtitles. DVD extras include audio commentary by Andy McAvin ("Gento") and Mike Kleinhenz ("Majima"); Lila's On-Call Mission Announcement; production sketches; Japanese television spots; clean opening and closing animation; and ADV Previews.

Pantyriffic Collector's Edition Available!
Volume 1 of Najica Blitz Tactics is still available in a collectors' edition including the DVD and a custom series art box, sized to hold the entire series AND an exclusive pair of white cotton Najica Blitz Tactics bikini-cut panties! (Sorry, gents; one size only...)

About ADV Films:
In 1992, ADV Films began to forge the international market for Japanese animation ("anime") by combining unique titles, outstanding production values and efficient large-scale distribution. Today, ADV Films is the #1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation to the North American market, with the firm's holdings including such premier titles as NOIR, Sailor Moon, Samurai X, Hello Kitty's Paradise, RahXephon, Spriggan, Robotech, Full Metal Panic and Neon Genesis Evangelion. In addition, ADV Films' product line has expanded to include other forms of genre programming, including live-action science fiction programs Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda, Mutant X and The Jim Henson Company's Farscape, and classic science fiction such as the updated Gamera trilogy. ADV Films' parent company, A.D. Vision, Inc. also publishes Newtype USA, the premier anime and manga monthly in the English-speaking world, and operates The Anime Network(tm), broadcasting anime and anime-related programming via digital cable, 24 hours a day. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, USA, with additional offices in the EU and Japan, and distribution on four continents, ADV Films is fast becoming an international entertainment powerhouse. For more information, visit ADV Films on the web at http://www.advfilms.com.

Well known for its enthusiastic genre hopping, including robot combat, musical theatre, romance, a dose of history lesson and more, the Sakura Wars franchise-including video games, OVAs and this television series-has proven an enduring fan favorite.

The Story:
The nefarious Satani is up to his tricks again-and the only thing more horrifying than the wickedness of his actions is the revelation of his true identity! Meanwhile, Sakura must face the Spirit World in order to make peace with the troubled soul of her father; Iris finally gets her hands on her own Koubu; and the Crimson Lady is back for another death match. Just your average day on the job for the Imperial Flower Combat Troop!

The adventure continues as the girls of the Koubu face off against the lords of destruction in a tag-team, steam-punk fight to the finish!

Sakura Wars TV: Intermission ($29.98 SRP) is a DVD-only release containing four complete episodes. It includes both English- and Japanese-language versions, and English subtitles. DVD extras include: a 16-page printed booklet including production sketches; production notes; clean opening and closing animation; character bios; and ADV previews.

About ADV Films:
In 1992, ADV Films began to forge the international market for Japanese animation ("anime") by combining unique titles, outstanding production values and efficient large-scale distribution. Today, ADV Films is the #1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation to the North American market, with the firm's holdings including such premier titles as NOIR, Sailor Moon, Samurai X, Hello Kitty's Paradise, RahXephon, Spriggan, Robotech, Full Metal Panic and Neon Genesis Evangelion. In addition, ADV Films' product line has expanded to include other forms of genre programming, including live-action science fiction programs Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda, Mutant X and The Jim Henson Company's Farscape, and classic science fiction such as the updated Gamera trilogy. ADV Films' parent company, A.D. Vision, Inc. also publishes Newtype USA, the premier anime and manga monthly in the English-speaking world, and operates The Anime Network(tm), broadcasting anime and anime-related programming via digital cable, 24 hours a day. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, USA, with additional offices in the EU and Japan, and distribution on four continents, ADV Films is fast becoming an international entertainment powerhouse. For more information, visit ADV Films on the web at http://www.advfilms.com.

FANTASY-THRILLER TITLE FROM THE MAKERS OF GODZILLA TO HIT STORES SEPTEMBER 30, 2003

HOUSTON, July 18, 2003-ADV Films today announced a street date of September 30, 2003 for the first-ever DVD release of Orochi: The Eight-Headed Dragon, the live-action monster motion picture that thrilled U.S. fans in its original VHS release. Orochi: The Eight-Headed Dragon is slated for release on ADV Films' Rubbersuit Pictures imprint. Orochi: The Eight-Headed Dragon was produced by Toho Studios, famed for the beloved Godzilla movies, and directed by Takao Okawara (Godzilla Vs. Destroyer, Godzilla Vs. Mothra).

The Story:
Born under an evil sign, Takeru Yamato's own father orders him executed at birth, but the Gods intervene and a hero is born! Motion-picture technology finally catches up with the grandeur of the epic myth as Toho Studios unleashes an unparalleled spectacle of swordplay and mass destruction! Utilizing state of the art special effects and stunning sets, Orochi: The Eight-Headed Dragon breathes awe-inspiring life into Takeru's legendary confrontations with black sorcerers, fire demons and the monstrous Orochi!

Orochi: The Eight-Headed Dragon (SRP $19.98) is a DVD-only release including English- and Japanese-language versions, with English subtitles. Includes ADV Previews.

About ADV Films:
In 1992, ADV Films began to forge the international market for Japanese animation ("anime") by combining unique titles, outstanding production values and efficient large-scale distribution. Today, ADV Films is the #1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation to the North American market, with the firm's holdings including such premier titles as NOIR, Sailor Moon, Samurai X, Hello Kitty's Paradise, RahXephon, Spriggan, Robotech, Full Metal Panic and Neon Genesis Evangelion. In addition, ADV Films' product line has expanded to include other forms of genre programming, including live-action science fiction programs Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda, Mutant X and The Jim Henson Company's Farscape, and classic science fiction such as the updated Gamera trilogy. ADV Films' parent company, A.D. Vision, Inc. also publishes Newtype USA, the premier anime and manga monthly in the English-speaking world, and operates The Anime Network(tm), broadcasting anime and anime-related programming via digital cable, 24 hours a day. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, USA, with additional offices in the EU and Japan, and distribution on four continents, ADV Films is fast becoming an international entertainment powerhouse. For more information, visit ADV Films on the web at http://www.advfilms.com.

Zac and Jacob spend the entire first video episode of ANNCast talking spoiler-free about Makoto Shinkai's amazing movie, your name., plus Yuri!!! on Ice and much more!― ANNCast Episode 278: What's My Name Zac and Jacob spend the entire first video episode of ANNCast talking spoiler-free about Makoto Shinkai's amazing movie, Your Name, plus Yuri on Ice and much more! You can listen to the show on ou...

Pokemon Sun and Moon introduced a brand new visual style to the franchise that's left fans divided! Callum May explains how and why Pokemon's style has shifted so much over the years.― The anime industry is constantly changing. In the past 20 years, we've seen new studios rise and old guards fall, we've lost extraordinary veteran talents and welcomed new hopeful faces, we've seen entirely new ways o...

One of the most beloved seasons in this classic anime is finally available to own with a brand-new dub! Rebecca Silverman explores how well Sailor Moon S holds up after all these years.― Sailor Moon S is hailed as one of the best seasons of the five-season series, and even just from the first few episodes, you can see why. Unlike its predecessors, Sailor Moon S gets right down to business introducin...

It's Dark Souls by way of creative powderkeg Suda 51, and Dustin has strapped in for a weird, bloody ride. PLUS: Death Stranding, Final Fantasy XV, Super Mario Run and much more!― It's the end of the year, and that means it's time for game releases to start winding down—but don't worry, January is already packed. There's only one release of any note this week, but don't think the lack of new games m...

This unusual historical fantasy anime might have gotten lost in the shuffle of bigger titles over time, but it's still one of a kind today. Theron Martin explores just what makes this series special.― Maria the Virgin Witch is a remarkable series in many respects. It's nearly as raunchy as a high-end fanservice anime – even being assigned a TV-MA rating despite not having any detailed nudity – and y...

Like this season's Izetta: The Last Witch, historical fiction anime plays fast and loose with real events to spin some fantastic yarns that nevertheless teach us plenty about real history!― Though it has never been a dominant anime genre, historical fiction has nevertheless persisted in anime since its earliest days. These days hardly a season goes by without some new interpretation(s) of Sengoku-er...

The extras are insightful in this new release of Summer Wars, even if the story may not hold up the way it once did. Rebecca Silverman offers her take on Mamoru Hosoda's breakout film.― Time is the greatest test of any work. Poems written by Heian era women over a thousand years ago are still intimately relatable to modern readers, novels by men in the 19th century still have a lot to say about soci...

Monster Musume is a very, very naughty manga. When you've got a harem interspecies comedy where the girls are half-snake, half-horse or half-slime mould, the sexy permutations are pretty much infinite. Below, we've nominated our seven favourite guilty pleasures from Monster Musume's early chapters. Warning: the following scenes contain acts which some people may find unnatural... 1 – Monster Musu...

Keijo!!!!!!!! shoots up the charts and Sound! Euphonium 2 retakes the top spot in our weekly user rankings! See how your favorite shows performed!― Our team of reviewers are following 27 anime series of the Fall 2016 season and readers are rating each episode as the reviews go up. So let's have a look at what ANN readers consider the best (and worst) of the season. Keep in mind that these rankings ...

After a decade in development, the latest entry in the Final Fantasy franchise is finally here! Dustin Bailey has the lowdown on this bishounen-packed road trip.― Every time you boot up Final Fantasy XV, it presents you with a message, calling itself a “Final Fantasy for fans and first timers.” The series' disconnected chronology has always favored reinvention, but this one takes that that further t...